Hootsworth

Hello Everyone,

I've run into a bit of an issue. I think I know what's wrong, but wanted a sounding board to confirm if I'm right. For the last month or so my battery seems to be dying a lot. The battery itself is an Autocraft Gold that came with my truck. Looking at the date the battery is dated for 9/2014.

Numerous times over the last month I've gone out to start my truck only for it to try and turn over for a second then gives up. I'll hook it up to a charger for a few hours, it'll work once or twice then a couple of days later when I need to use it again. Same deal.

Last time I charged it, I hooked it up to a 12v/1Amp charger for about 3 days, and that seemed to do better. It lasted about two weeks (admittedly I do a decent bit of short trips on the weekends). Now I'm hooking it up to the same charger and just gonna leave it there for about 5-6 days, but I'm wondering if I'm missing something or if the battery is just junk?

I've checked for parasitic draws and my alternator is running good.

Tachdriver

You did not mention how long you have had that battery.

I service my batteries with distilled water, check it a few times a year.

Have you tried a second battery?

joe mcmillan

You need to check the output voltage of the alternator. Should be approximately 13.8 - 14.4 volts with the truck running (without other electronic items operating). If this voltage is good, your battery may be going bad.
Drive to one of your local auto parts stores. They can check the battery and the alternator in about a minute to determine status of each @ no expense to you.

Big Blue Bertha

Get alternator checked. Then buy an optima

grss429

battery might have a bad cell, go to a local auto parts store they can test your battery/charging system for free

snowborderus

Get the battery checked. Doesn't matter that it's less than 2 years old, they can go bad. If bad, get a good quality replacement ($100-$125)
Have the alternator checked with the loads ---> ON

techrep

iTrader: (1)

I willing to bet the alt is not charging the battery properly .. check alt voltage as stated above with engine running at the battery .. needs to be around 14 VDC.

LakelandFordParts

I would have to agree with everyone else, the alternator is the likely culprit. I am partial but I would always suggest using factory products. We have them available, if you're interested just let me know the vehicle details and I can give you the part number.

Hootsworth

Tested the Alternator again today, it's putting out 14.4V.

techrep

iTrader: (1)

How was it tested and where.. IE at the battery ?